Larry Bernard Schmidt Schierling

Larry’s journey began in 1945….a life praiseworthy of honour. He was a curious boy of quiet reserve; an ambitious youth with goals; a skilled worksman in his craftsmanship; a loyal friend to many; a devoted father and grandfather to his family. Larry’s journey ended in 2009….a life deeply missed. His memory will be forever cherished and etched on our hearts. Thanks to all who have been a part of Larry’s life. He made us all better people by having known him. Let us be gallant and carry on with fortitude in our lives. He will be remembered always.May You Rest in Peace___________________________________________________________Larry was born on January 14, 1945 in New Westminster. At three months old, his parents, Jacob and Rubina moved the family to Whalley on five acres of land on the corner of Hjorth road and Old Yale Road. His life began on a hobby farm with a small barn, a chicken coup, a cow and a pig, with fruit trees and a large vegetable garden. He was one of five children, sister Julie; brothers Allan and Norman; and twin sister Jean (Little Buddies). Larry attended the local schools of South Westminster, K.B. Woodward, West Whalley Jr, and Queen Elizabeth Sr. Secondary. He attended Church regularly with the family and enjoyed baseball, skating at New Westminster Arena, swimming at White Rock Beach, fishing under the Pattulo Bridge, and duck hunting some of his high school buddies. Larry's first job after high school was with McLennan Motors Gas Station in New Westminster. At the age of 20 (1965), Larry joined the welding fabrication industry working for AIM Steel in New Westminster. In 1967, Larry married, adopted Wendy, and in 1970 his son Todd was born. Family activities included camping, boating and sand bar fishing down by the Patullo Bridge. In 1973, Larry and brother Norm opened up Westcoast Hydraulics Ltd. in Coquitlam. They each put in $750 to buy a stick welder, compressor and crane and produced many hydraulic systems together. The company ran for nine years until work 1982 when work was slow - they closed shop. In 1976, Larry took on the challenge of being a single parent raising Todd while running Westcoast Hydraulics. A task that anyone could be proud of as he persevered ensuring that both him and his son were taken care of. From 1982 to 2009, Larry worked occasionally as a contractor but many of his years of service was with Fleck Bros. Ltd., Hypower / Q1 Design and Janox Fluid Power Ltd. He became known for his workmanship and good character. Hydraulics, welding, fabricating, tube bending, and painting became Larry's passion. He worked very hard over his 44 year career and gained the respect of many in the industry. Over the years, Larry enjoyed taking his son on boating adventures, softball road trips, and getting to know the other parents at the ball park. Dirt bike riding, fishing and family reunions were many of the good times spent together. He supported his son through post-secondary and career choices. Larry enjoyed his family additions immensely, daughter in-law Tammy (1999), and grandchildren Makenna (2002) and Caitlin (2004). Many good times were shared where once again, he watched them from the sidelines in their sports and dance recitals. A trip to Mexico with his family and friends was one he enjoyed all too well. On February 19, 2009, Larry was diagnosed with lung cancer - he had a short but brave fight. After having spent two weeks in hospital, he went home to receive the care and support at his son's house. During this time, Todd and wife Tammy devoted their energy in caring for their Dad. Larry's grandchildren were overjoyed to have any chance to cuddle with "Papa Larry" - they sang to him, read books to him, and tucked him in at night. His twin sister Jean and brother in-law Gordon provided unwavering support and care for him and his family during this difficult time. They offered their complete love, and were able to draw stories from the childhood years which brought much needed laughter to the room. It was also evident, that visitors from the old neighbourhood and his work lifted his spirits. In recognition of Larry's years of service with Janox Fluid Power Ltd, a retirement gathering was planned, but Larry became too ill to attend. In lieu of this, his co-workers and boss came to the house. His boss expressed his gratitude and how much everyone misses him, and presented him with an engraved retirement watch. He also received a nice photo album of his work and co-workers, and was given chocolates, flowers and a jug of 'chocolate milk' that he had everyday with lunch when at work. Larry's spirits were lifted that evening, and responded with a short and sincere thank you speech. The next day, Larry was transported to hospital to receive medical attention. On Larry's last few days, Gord, Jean, Tammy and Todd stood by him and gave their love and support - he was not alone. The evening of March 30th, 2009 Larry passed away peacefully at Surrey Memorial Hospital with Todd by his side. On April 6th, 2009, many family, friends and co-workers joined in a Celebration of Life service for Larry at Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre in Surrey, BC. It was a beautiful day!